An unusual piece of amber containing a perfectly preserved cockroach will start at 12,000 rubles ($135) at an upcoming international auction in Moscow. The announcement highlights both the rarity of such finds and another curious example of life in Russia, which continues to deliver unexpected headlines. This story adds to the growing list of bizarre discoveries tied to Russia news today.
The fossilized insect was found by the Kaliningrad Amber Plant, a division of Russia’s state-owned Rostec Corporation. The stone was extracted earlier this summer and has already drawn attention from collectors and paleontologists. The estimated age of the cockroach is between 35 and 40 million years.
The amber will be sold during the International Amber Forum, scheduled to take place at Pavilion 57 at VDNH in Moscow from July 31 to August 3. The auction is expected to draw significant interest from foreign buyers, especially given the uniqueness of the inclusion.
Rare fossil goes to auction
Maria Zhuravel, head of the Kaliningrad Amber Plant’s Moscow office, confirmed the starting price at a preview event for the auction pieces. She noted that prices for unique items like this often climb well beyond initial estimates. Industry experts say the final price could multiply several times depending on bidding interest.
The plant initially announced the discovery in late June. Photos released by organizers show the cockroach clearly visible within the golden stone, its body intact and well-preserved. Inclusions like this are highly prized by both scientists and collectors due to the insights they offer into prehistoric life.
Highlighting natural wonders in modern Russia
Amber from the Kaliningrad region accounts for over 90% of the world’s known reserves. This makes Russia a major player in the global amber trade, despite limited access for international researchers due to sanctions and geopolitical tensions. Life in Russia, as illustrated by this find, often combines moments of natural beauty with complex political realities.
The fossilized cockroach story marks another strange and fascinating entry in Russia news today. It reflects how life in Russia remains a blend of ancient history and modern absurdity, as this amber specimen makes its way from the earth to the auction block.
